Each person is unique; therefore, the treatment plan is individualized. It depends on the type of illness, the severity of the condition, the duration of the sickness, and the physical state of the patient at the time of treatment.

For acute conditions, only a few treatments are needed. While a series of 12 to 15 treatments may resolve many chronic problems.

For health maintenance program, either preventive or promotive, periodic treatments (once a month or twice a month) are recommended. This program usually helps the internal organs to function in a continuous balanced condition and improves the whole body's physiological ability.

Are there any side effects from treatment?

As energy is redirected in the body, internal chemicals and hormones are stimulated and healing begins to take place. Occasionally the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetite, sleep, bowel or urination patterns, or emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work. It is quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment. These pass within a short time, and never require anything more than a bit of rest to overcome.

What are the needles like? Do they hurt?

People experience acupuncture needling differently. Most patients feel only minimal discomfort as the needles are inserted; some feel no discomfort at all. Once the needles are in place, there is no discomfort felt. Acupuncture needles are very thin and solid and are made from surgical stainless steel. The needle tip is smooth (not hollow with cutting edges like a hypodermic needle) and insertion through the skin is not as painful as injections or blood sampling. The risk of bruising and skin irritation is less than when using a hypodermic needle.

Are the needles clean?

At Klinoerth Therapy Clinic, we use sterilized, individually packaged, disposable needles. We always use new needles for each treatment, thus eliminating the possibility of transmitting a communicable disease by a contaminated needle.

Does Acupuncture really work?

Yes. In the past 2,000 years, more people have been successfully treated with acupuncture than with all other health modalities combined. Today, acupuncture is practiced widely in Asia, the Soviet Union, and in Europe. It is now being used more and more in America by patients and physicians. Acupuncture treatments can be given at the same time other techniques are being used, such as conventional Western medicine, osteopathic or chiropractic adjustments, and homeopathic or naturopathic prescriptions.

Are there any "Do's and Don'ts" for me on the day of a treatment?

Yes. To enhance the value of a treatment, the following guidelines are important:

Relax. There is no need to be frightened. Ask your practitioner any questions you have along the way so that you can get the most benefit possible from the treatment.

Do not change your position or move suddenly during your treatment. If you are uncomfortable, please tell your practitioner.

Do not eat an unusually large meal immediately before or after your treatment.

Do not over-exercise or consume alcoholic beverages within few hours before or after the treatment.

Plan your activities so that after the treatment you can get some rest, or at least not have to be working at top performance. This is especially important for the first few visits.